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Give Military Justice Attorneys a phone call at (843) 755-6535 Contact Us

A Titling Decision Can Follow You for Life

Being “titled” by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) means your name has been entered into a federal law enforcement database as the subject of a criminal investigation, even if the allegation was unproven, unfounded, or never resulted in charges. Most Sailors and Marines are never informed when titling occurs, discovering it only during a clearance review, background check, or post-service employment screening.

Because the standard for titling—“credible information”—is extremely low, many service members are unfairly labeled based on incomplete evidence, inconsistent statements, or flawed investigative conclusions. Military Justice Attorneys helps Sailors, Marines, and veterans challenge unjust titling decisions through strong appeals and correction requests designed to restore their good name.

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What Is NCIS Titling?

Titling occurs when NCIS determines there is “credible information” that a person committed a criminal offense under Department of Defense Instruction 5505.07. It is not a finding of guilt, and it does not require corroborating evidence, full investigation, or even a command determination of wrongdoing.

However, titling entries are recorded in federal databases such as the Defense Central Index of Investigations (DCII), which can impact:

  • Security clearance adjudications
  • Suitability screening for billets or programs
  • Promotion and advancement boards
  • Veteran employment requiring background checks
  • Civilian government job eligibility

Titling is meant to be administrative, but in reality, it can produce serious, long-lasting consequences unless successfully appealed.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Titling Appeals

  • Detailed Review of NCIS Investigative Records - Your attorney examines statements, digital evidence, timelines, and investigative conclusions to show that titling was based on flawed or insufficient information.
  • Regulation-Based Appeals With Strong Evidentiary Support - An experienced attorney prepares a persuasive appeal explaining why the available information did not meet the standard for titling or why the determination must be corrected.
  • Escalation to Higher Review Authorities or Correction Boards - If NCIS denies relief, your attorney may elevate your case to NCIS Headquarters or pursue permanent relief through record correction. Federal law authorizes correction of naval records when an error or injustice exists, and you can learn more about this authority under 10 U.S.C. § 1552 at: https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2023-title10/html/USCODE-2023-title10-subtitleA-partII-chap79-sec1552.htm.
  • Protection of Long-Term Career and Civilian Opportunities - Successful titling appeals prevent unjust entries from undermining your clearance, future duty assignments, reenlistment, or post-service employment.
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Is a Titling Appeal Relevant to My Situation?

You may need legal assistance if you:

  • Were investigated by NCIS but never charged
  • Believe NCIS misinterpreted or misapplied evidence
  • Learned of a titling entry during a clearance check
  • Were denied a position or assignment based on an unseen record entry
  • Know the allegation was false, incomplete, or unsubstantiated
  • Dispute the accuracy of statements or facts used by investigators
  • Suspect bias, error, or misconduct influenced NCIS’s decision

Titling often arises in cases involving:

  • Sexual misconduct allegations
  • Domestic disputes
  • Drug-related investigations
  • Financial crimes or fraud allegations
  • Workplace conflicts
  • Hazing or assault allegations
  • Cyber or electronic misconduct

If the titling entry does not reflect the truth of what occurred, an attorney can help you fight it.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our attorneys are all former military officers who served on active duty. We work as a team on your case, leveraging each of our attorneys’ unique perspectives and vast experience to win on your behalf.

Gerry Healy

Owner and Founder

Gerry founded Military Justice Attorneys to provide service members with principled, trial-tested defense rooted in firsthand experience inside the military justice system.

  • Former Judge Advocate in the U.S. Marine Corps
  • Recognized Criminal Defense Attorney and Litigator
  • Represents Military Community in Complex Mass Torts
Gerry Healy

Josh Hill

Managing Partner

Josh oversees the firm’s military justice practice, bringing a strategic and detail-driven approach to complex litigation, appeals, and high-stakes administrative matters.

  • Former Military Prosecutor and Defense Counsel
  • Admitted to Practice in all Military Appellate Courts
  • Burton Award for Distinguished Legal Writing
Josh Hill

Chip Hodge

Partner

Chip draws on senior-level military justice experience to advise and defend service members facing courts-martial, investigations, and career-altering administrative actions.

  • Retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel
  • Served as Deputy SJA, Marine Forces Reserve
  • Deployed to Afghanistan in Support of OEF
Chip Hodge

Paul Murray

Partner

Paul represents contractors injured while working overseas in support of US agencies and forces, combining significant litigation experience with a deep commitment to helping injured workers.

  • Former Major in the U.S. Marine Corps
  • Admitted to the Bar in South Carolina, Georgia, and Illinois
Paul Murray

Jon Shelburne

Senior Counsel

Jon brings decades of courtroom and appellate experience, focusing on serious criminal allegations and complex military justice matters worldwide.

  • 30+ Years of Trial Experience
  • Co-Chair, Veterans Committee for Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
Jon Shelburne

Amy Thomas

Of Counsel

Amy provides strategic counsel on military and employment-related matters, informed by senior leadership experience and advanced legal training.

  • Retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps
  • Master's in Jurisprudence in Labor & Employment Law
Amy Thomas
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The NCIS Titling Appeal Process What to Expect

1. Obtaining and Reviewing NCIS Records

Your attorney gathers all available investigative materials to identify inaccuracies, unsupported assumptions, or procedural violations.

2. Preparation of a Comprehensive Appeal

Your attorney drafts a detailed, evidence-based appeal explaining why the titling should be amended or removed, referencing DoD and NCIS policies.

3. Submission to the Correct NCIS Authority

Appeals are initially reviewed by NCIS units or headquarters, depending on the context and nature of the alleged offense.

4. Further Appeals Through the BCNR

If NCIS denies relief, your attorney may submit a petition to the Board for Correction of Naval Records. The statutory authority for BCNR relief is found in 10 U.S.C. § 1552, which you can review at: https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2023-title10/html/USCODE-2023-title10-subtitleA-partII-chap79-sec1552.htm

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Case Results We’ve been in the fight & know how to win

View All Results

NEGATIVE EVALUATIONS REMOVED

U.S. Navy Reserve. Negative Evaluation and Counseling Removed from Records for Senior Enlisted Sailor.

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NCIS GRANTS TITLING EXPUNGEMENT

Department of the Navy. NCIS Grants Titling Appeal, Removes Sailor from DCII, NCIC, and III Databases.

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ADSEP TERMINATED

San Antonio, Texas. Adsep terminated for Navy Petty Officer accused of ignoring orders from command.

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CAREER SAVED

Norfolk, Virginia. Navy Petty Officer investigated for alleged harassment of a fellow Sailor informally counseled.

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ADSEP TERMINATED

United States Navy Reserve. Petty Officer Third Class threatened with termination for refusing COVID-19 vaccine.

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NO MISCONDUCT

Pensacola, Florida. Separation Board Finds “No Misconduct” by Sailor Accused of Drug Abuse.

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"NO BASIS" FINDING ("DELTA-9" THC)

San Diego, California. Sailor Retained, Adsep Board Finds "No Basis" After Sailor Tests Positive for “Delta-9” THC.

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"NO BASIS" FOR ALLEGED SEX ASSAULT

Yokosuka, Japan. Adsep Board Unsubstantiates Sexual Assault Allegations, Retains Sailor in the Navy.

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RELEASED FROM CONFINEMENT

Camp Pendleton, California. Marine Lance Corporal (E-3) Accused of Domestic Violence Released From Navy Brig.

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CHARGES DISMISSED

Naval Base Coronado, California. Navy Senior Chief (E-8) under NCIS investigation avoids court-martial.

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View All Results
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After Your Titling Appeal What Comes Next

Even if your titling entry is corrected or removed, you may still need legal support with:

  • Clearance adjudication responses
  • Correction of related adverse evaluations
  • Rebuttals to command administrative actions
  • Discharge upgrades
  • Reinstatement or reconsideration for lost opportunities

Military Justice Attorneys assists service members in ensuring that the lingering effects of an unfair titling decision do not continue harming their careers.

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

Contact Us (843) 755-6535

Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

View All Testimonials

"Professional and Understanding"

I'm very grateful that he went...

Mr. Healy was very professional and understanding. He was very fierce when he was speaking on my behalf and was very thorough with everything. I'm very grateful that he went to bat for me and saved me my job, my career and I would recommend him to any military member going through a situation I did. Thanks Gerry for all the hard work.

-PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS, USN

"Worth Every Cent if You Need a Military Defense Attorney!"

I cannot thank Gerry enough fo...

I had the unfortunate experience to become involved in an investigation on a Marine Corps Officer while I was TAD with the Marine Corps. I immediately began looking for a civilian attorney to help with the process. I came across the MJA website and put in a request for a consult. Gerry called that night and spent over an hour on the phone with me discussing the case until that point.After refusing NJP, the CO sent it for an administrative separation for my misconduct, but thanks to Gerry’s advice, I didn’t have substantiated charges as I had not gone to NJP where I would have no rights, It was not referred to court martial.I received the notice right as I was informed that I was on 48 hours notice to deploy in response to the COVID response. Gerry was able to get an extension for the response, and then was able to contact the witness I provided. His expertly written brief was worth everything I had paid for and was written so much better then I could have ever hoped to have written myself. Gerry was able to point out the flaws with the command’s lack of investigation, was able to cite case law to support why the charges were not supported and forced the command to look at my entire career. It was submitted and the day that Gerry followed up with the Command JAG, I was notified that the CO was dropping the charge for dereliction of duty and would issue a NPLOC for the Conduct Unbecoming Charge and a report of no misconduct was routed to PERS. I cannot thank Gerry enough for the work he put into my response and saving my career! I would recommend him to anyone and vouch that he is worth every penny to save your career.

-LCDR, USN

"The Best Choice for a Military Defense Counsel"

I trusted him with my career o...

When I was put under investigation with my Command pending Court Martial, I didn’t know who to turn to for help. Thankfully I came across MJA’s law firm website and immediately hired Mr. Hill after consultation and looking over their reviews. After 7 long months of waiting, the week of my Court Martial came and I would see the fearlessness and confidence of Mr. Hill in the courtroom. He tore apart the government’s theory piece by piece which would result in the outcome in our favor. I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding. I 10/10 would highly recommend Mr. Hill to anyone who is going through legal challenges with their command.

-PETTY OFFICER THIRD CLASS, USN

"I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding. I 10/10 would highly recommend Mr. Hill."

When I was put under investiga...

When I was put under investigation with my Command pending Court Martial, I didn’t know who to turn to for help. Thankfully I came across MJA’s law firm website and immediately hired Mr. Hill after consultation and looking over their reviews. After 7 long months of waiting, the week of my Court Martial came and I would see the fearlessness and confidence of Mr. Hill in the courtroom. He tore apart the government’s theory piece by piece which would result in the outcome in our favor. I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding. I 10/10 would highly recommend Mr. Hill to anyone who is going through legal challenges with their command.
-PETTY OFFICER THIRD CLASS, USN

"Titling & Indexing Petition for Expungement"

Josh Hill brought in a big win...

Josh laid a course of action to petition against a ‘titling’ from a military investigation on my criminal record and worked diligently through every step of the process to make my case. It was an uphill battle, requiring us to petition at each level of authority. It didn’t come quickly and certainly not without effort – but Josh Hill brought in a big win for me that will have a positive change for the rest of my life. He was open & honest from the start, didn’t make any promises & was real about what we were up against. What I appreciate about Josh is that he knows what he’s doing. I consulted with other attorneys & it seemed like a cash grab with them – but with Josh I could tell he had experience. There was a good chance my petition could have been denied, but Josh worked it through to put up the best fight we could & it really paid off.
-CHIEF PETTY OFFICER, USN
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Extensive Experience Challenging NCIS Titling Decisions

Our attorneys know how NCIS evaluates evidence and how to expose weaknesses in the decision-making process.

Former Judge Advocates With Insight Into Naval Investigative Practices

We understand how investigations develop, how conclusions are formed, and how to strategically attack flawed reasoning.

Dedicated Advocacy Aimed at Protecting Your Future

We provide clear communication, strong appellate writing, and personalized representation designed to safeguard your reputation. These strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted choice for service members seeking relief from unfair NCIS titling.

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NCIS Titling Appeals FAQs

Can NCIS title me even if I was never charged or punished?

Yes. NCIS uses a very low standard—“credible information”—which does not require proof or corroboration. Many service members are titled despite being fully cleared by their commands or never facing UCMJ action. A strong appeal can challenge the validity of the determination.

Does titling automatically affect my security clearance?

It often does. Clearance investigators routinely review titling entries, and even unsubstantiated allegations may trigger additional questioning or adverse determinations. An attorney can help you respond effectively and work to remove the titling before it harms your clearance.

How do I find out if NCIS has titled me?

Most service members are not notified. Titling usually becomes known during a clearance review or through FOIA requests. An attorney can help request the records, interpret the findings, and determine whether a titling entry exists.

Can a titling entry be removed completely?

Yes, but it requires a compelling appeal demonstrating that NCIS lacked credible information or misapplied its own standards. The BCNR also has authority to remove unjust entries entirely when presented with strong legal and factual arguments.

How long does the titling appeal process take?

Timelines vary from several weeks to several months, depending on the reviewing authority. Cases elevated to the BCNR may take longer. Your attorney helps track the process, file necessary documents, and pursue relief as efficiently as possible.

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Correct the Record Before It Affects Your Future

Schedule a confidential consultation with NCIS titling appeals attorneys who can help remove unjust entries and protect your career.

Contact Us When Your Future Is On The Line

Our decentralized approach to military defense ensures that we can represent service members from any branch of the military, of any rank, at any military base or installation stateside or abroad.

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

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